We are offering a great case special with lots of variety and flexibility. Each item below is listed with it's normal and special case price. As long as you order at least 12 bottles mix and match from these 24 highlighted selections, you get that best price. You could do one bottle each of 12 of the wines, or do 6 of the Sauvignon Blanc and 6 of the Cabernet Sauvignon, or 12 of just the Chardonnay, and still get the best discount. We are happy to make suggestions if needed as well.
Sparkling Wines
Alla Costiera Prosecco Extra Dry
Prosecco DOC, Italy, 2021
Sparkling wine has an amazing ability to turn a normal get together into a celebration. We can’t think of a better example than the Alla Costiera, a gorgeous Prosecco, much more refined than your average bottle. The aromas are clean and fragrant with white flower and sweet citrus in center stage. Pretty orchard blossom and honeysuckle notes wind through, with peach, apple and apricot flavors, a fine-grained bead and citrusy acidity that leads to a mouthwatering finish. A fantastic drink or toast, it will also highlight any Sushi platter, White Pizza with artichokes, or even your best Fried Chicken recipe!
Normally $18.99
Special Case Price $15.99
Alla Costiera Prosecco Extra Dry
Prosecco DOC, Italy, 2021
Sparkling wine has an amazing ability to turn a normal get together into a celebration. We can’t think of a better example than the Alla Costiera, a gorgeous Prosecco, much more refined than your average bottle. The aromas are clean and fragrant with white flower and sweet citrus in center stage. Pretty orchard blossom and honeysuckle notes wind through, with peach, apple and apricot flavors, a fine-grained bead and citrusy acidity that leads to a mouthwatering finish. A fantastic drink or toast, it will also highlight any Sushi platter, White Pizza with artichokes, or even your best Fried Chicken recipe!
Normally $18.99
Special Case Price $15.99
White Wines
Bohigas 'X' Xarel-lo
Catalunya, Spain, 2018
The wine has aromas and flavors of bright lemon, green apple, fresh herbs and spices. It is light-bodied with apple undertones and a fruity finish. The grape Xarel-lo is not unknown to us wine geeks, but we are much more accustomed to seeing it as a background element in blended Spanish wines, especially in the sparkling wines of Cava. This however is a delicious example of the grape as the main focus of a non-bubbly wine, one of the few of this grape we've encountered. For more than 6 centuries the Bohigas family has been growing vines and managing their own vineyards with over 150 hectares. The vineyards a very well situated to grow white varieties as they get lots of sunshine but the evenings are very cool retaining the freshness in the wines. Fans of Sauvignon Blanc or Italian white wines will definitely find a lot to like in this wine!
Normally $11.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Indaba Chenin Blanc
Western Cape, South Africa,2020
One of the grapes most closely associated with South African wine is Chenin Blanc, where it is often also called ‘Steen’. This fresh, easy-drinking version offers vibrant flavors of honeyed pear, golden delicious apple, and luscious tropical fruit. The finish shows light honeysuckle hints and green almond accents. Pairing beautifully with sushi, shellfish, roasted vegetables as well as sweet and sour flavors such as pad thai, you can get creative in the kitchen with Chenin (and even add some to your food!) by employing the assistance of spices such as tikka masala and cheeses such as herbed goat cheese and Humboldt Fog.
Normally $11.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Bohigas 'X' Xarel-lo
Catalunya, Spain, 2018
The wine has aromas and flavors of bright lemon, green apple, fresh herbs and spices. It is light-bodied with apple undertones and a fruity finish. The grape Xarel-lo is not unknown to us wine geeks, but we are much more accustomed to seeing it as a background element in blended Spanish wines, especially in the sparkling wines of Cava. This however is a delicious example of the grape as the main focus of a non-bubbly wine, one of the few of this grape we've encountered. For more than 6 centuries the Bohigas family has been growing vines and managing their own vineyards with over 150 hectares. The vineyards a very well situated to grow white varieties as they get lots of sunshine but the evenings are very cool retaining the freshness in the wines. Fans of Sauvignon Blanc or Italian white wines will definitely find a lot to like in this wine!
Normally $11.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Indaba Chenin Blanc
Western Cape, South Africa,2020
One of the grapes most closely associated with South African wine is Chenin Blanc, where it is often also called ‘Steen’. This fresh, easy-drinking version offers vibrant flavors of honeyed pear, golden delicious apple, and luscious tropical fruit. The finish shows light honeysuckle hints and green almond accents. Pairing beautifully with sushi, shellfish, roasted vegetables as well as sweet and sour flavors such as pad thai, you can get creative in the kitchen with Chenin (and even add some to your food!) by employing the assistance of spices such as tikka masala and cheeses such as herbed goat cheese and Humboldt Fog.
Normally $11.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Castellano Pinot Grigio
Venezie, Italy, 2020
If there were a dictionary entry for the phrase ‘well made Pinot Grigio’ it would be a picture of a bottle of Castellano. While Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are wines made of the same grape, there are definite stylistic differences. The style in which Pinot Grigio is typically made is so distinctive that Gris and Grigio are often treated as different varieties, even though they have identical DNA. The Italian Grigio style, successfully adopted in the US and to a lesser extent Australia, is achieved by harvesting the grapes relatively early. This helps retain the naturally high acidity of the grape, and stainless steel fermentation maintains a freshness and liveliness. Castellano is produced in the northern region of Veneto in Cazzano di Tramigia, where wines have been produced since the 12th century. Clean yellow in the glass with lime green hints, it has excellent body and structure for its price. The flavor is fresh, with long lasting notes of apple and citrus fruits. A patio pounder for sure, but will also hold up to a nice cajun catfish filet, or a lemon kale salad with garlic and parmesan.
Normally $12.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Vignoble Duffour Blanc
Côtes de Gascogne, France, 2021
This blend of Colombard, Gros Manseng, and Ugni Blanc from the Gascogne region has become a customer favorite, and understandably so. In the glass, the Domaine Duffour is a pale lemon-yellow color with a crisp, clean appearance and pleasantly round viscosity for a white wine. On the nose and palate, there are immediate fresh notes of Key lime pie, lemon rind, citrus grove, crushed white fruit, stone fruit and chalky minerals. Cotes de Gascogne is the IGP title for wines that are produced in an area centered on the Gers administrative department of South-West France. The countryside here is verdant, and the low rolling terrain is interspersed with small, picturesque villages. All in all, this is well suited to viticulture, as the soils and climate work together across the area to create an optimal environment for vineyards.
Normally $12.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Venezie, Italy, 2020
If there were a dictionary entry for the phrase ‘well made Pinot Grigio’ it would be a picture of a bottle of Castellano. While Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris are wines made of the same grape, there are definite stylistic differences. The style in which Pinot Grigio is typically made is so distinctive that Gris and Grigio are often treated as different varieties, even though they have identical DNA. The Italian Grigio style, successfully adopted in the US and to a lesser extent Australia, is achieved by harvesting the grapes relatively early. This helps retain the naturally high acidity of the grape, and stainless steel fermentation maintains a freshness and liveliness. Castellano is produced in the northern region of Veneto in Cazzano di Tramigia, where wines have been produced since the 12th century. Clean yellow in the glass with lime green hints, it has excellent body and structure for its price. The flavor is fresh, with long lasting notes of apple and citrus fruits. A patio pounder for sure, but will also hold up to a nice cajun catfish filet, or a lemon kale salad with garlic and parmesan.
Normally $12.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Vignoble Duffour Blanc
Côtes de Gascogne, France, 2021
This blend of Colombard, Gros Manseng, and Ugni Blanc from the Gascogne region has become a customer favorite, and understandably so. In the glass, the Domaine Duffour is a pale lemon-yellow color with a crisp, clean appearance and pleasantly round viscosity for a white wine. On the nose and palate, there are immediate fresh notes of Key lime pie, lemon rind, citrus grove, crushed white fruit, stone fruit and chalky minerals. Cotes de Gascogne is the IGP title for wines that are produced in an area centered on the Gers administrative department of South-West France. The countryside here is verdant, and the low rolling terrain is interspersed with small, picturesque villages. All in all, this is well suited to viticulture, as the soils and climate work together across the area to create an optimal environment for vineyards.
Normally $12.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Beyond Sauvignon Blanc
Western Cape, South Africa, 2021
Made by the Buitenverwachting Winery, Beyond is an excellent example to the refined style of Sauvignon Blanc produced in South Africa. While reminiscent of both New Zealand and Loire Valley Sauvignon Blancs, it is citrusy without being quite as intensely grapefruity as the New Zealand style, and has excellent minerality without being quite as stony and flinty as a Sancerre or Pouilly Fume. The Beyond is fermented in stainless steel, with a short period of skin contact, (about 12 hours), adding some lovely weight and texture. It is a bright wine, with white peach, kiwi, passionfruit, chamomile and fleur de sel accents across the nose and palate. The zesty finish has nice subtle hints of herbs and minerality, and it exhibits an elegance typical of cool climate Sauvignon Blanc.
Normally $14.99
Case Special Price $11.49
Western Cape, South Africa, 2021
Made by the Buitenverwachting Winery, Beyond is an excellent example to the refined style of Sauvignon Blanc produced in South Africa. While reminiscent of both New Zealand and Loire Valley Sauvignon Blancs, it is citrusy without being quite as intensely grapefruity as the New Zealand style, and has excellent minerality without being quite as stony and flinty as a Sancerre or Pouilly Fume. The Beyond is fermented in stainless steel, with a short period of skin contact, (about 12 hours), adding some lovely weight and texture. It is a bright wine, with white peach, kiwi, passionfruit, chamomile and fleur de sel accents across the nose and palate. The zesty finish has nice subtle hints of herbs and minerality, and it exhibits an elegance typical of cool climate Sauvignon Blanc.
Normally $14.99
Case Special Price $11.49
Guerrieri-Rizzardi Soave Classico 'Ferra'
Veneto, Italy, 2019
Soave is arguably the most famous white wine DOC in Italy, but unfortunately got a bad stigma in the American market. The big, round 1.5L bottles of Bolla Soave that lined American grocery store shelves in the last 1970s and early 1980s led far too many American consumers to think of Soave as cheap and innocuous. The real deal couldn't be further from that false impression! Quality Soave is made from Garganega grapes grown in hillside vineyards east of Verona, int he Veneto wine region of northeastern Italy. A dry, crisp, fruity white wine, Soave's natrually refreshing appeal has led it to phenomenal popularity. A Classico Soave such as this one comes from the Classico zone of the region, where the best fruit is known to be grown, and the Guerrieri-Rizzardi is also a single vineyard wine, coming completely from the 'Ferra' Vineyard. The wine has a luminous pale straw color, with ripe but fresh aromas of yellow apple, white stone fruit, lime zest and dried flowers. Its silky in texture, energized by brisk acids, with a mix of salty minerals and tart citrus adding tension, and finishes clean with hints of young mango and peach.
Normally $17.99
Special Case Price $13.99
Veneto, Italy, 2019
Soave is arguably the most famous white wine DOC in Italy, but unfortunately got a bad stigma in the American market. The big, round 1.5L bottles of Bolla Soave that lined American grocery store shelves in the last 1970s and early 1980s led far too many American consumers to think of Soave as cheap and innocuous. The real deal couldn't be further from that false impression! Quality Soave is made from Garganega grapes grown in hillside vineyards east of Verona, int he Veneto wine region of northeastern Italy. A dry, crisp, fruity white wine, Soave's natrually refreshing appeal has led it to phenomenal popularity. A Classico Soave such as this one comes from the Classico zone of the region, where the best fruit is known to be grown, and the Guerrieri-Rizzardi is also a single vineyard wine, coming completely from the 'Ferra' Vineyard. The wine has a luminous pale straw color, with ripe but fresh aromas of yellow apple, white stone fruit, lime zest and dried flowers. Its silky in texture, energized by brisk acids, with a mix of salty minerals and tart citrus adding tension, and finishes clean with hints of young mango and peach.
Normally $17.99
Special Case Price $13.99
Landmark ‘Overlook’ Chardonnay
Sonoma County, California, 2019
Landmark 'Overlook' Chardonnay has been a standard bearer of classic California Chardonnay since the early 1990s. Their signature style comes from whole cluster pressed grapes, fermentation by native yeast, and aging in French oak. They source grapes from 42 separate blocks from premium Sonoma County Vineyards in prestigious appellations such as Petaluma Gap, Sonoma Carneros, and Russian River Valley. On the nose, this wine features notes of Meyer lemon tarte, marzipan, toasted almonds, Asian pear, honeysuckle and a hint of Tahitian vanilla. On the palate, notes of apricot, clover honey and toast are in perfect balance with zippy acidity and bright minerality. The 2019 was aged sur-lie for 10 months in French oak barrels (25% new).
Normally $19.99
Special Case Price $16.99
Sonoma County, California, 2019
Landmark 'Overlook' Chardonnay has been a standard bearer of classic California Chardonnay since the early 1990s. Their signature style comes from whole cluster pressed grapes, fermentation by native yeast, and aging in French oak. They source grapes from 42 separate blocks from premium Sonoma County Vineyards in prestigious appellations such as Petaluma Gap, Sonoma Carneros, and Russian River Valley. On the nose, this wine features notes of Meyer lemon tarte, marzipan, toasted almonds, Asian pear, honeysuckle and a hint of Tahitian vanilla. On the palate, notes of apricot, clover honey and toast are in perfect balance with zippy acidity and bright minerality. The 2019 was aged sur-lie for 10 months in French oak barrels (25% new).
Normally $19.99
Special Case Price $16.99
Elk Cove Pinot Blanc
Willamette Valley, Oregon, 2021
While many wine lovers gush over Elk Cove’s Pinot Gris, I’ve always had a preference for their phenomenal Pinot Blanc, which seamlessly blends lovely texture with voluptuous fruit. Aromas of ripe pear, honey, apricot and chamomile open to honeydew, golden apple, yellow plum and orange zest flavors, while a gingery flourish lends spicy lift and cut. Finishes smooth and broad with a discreet floral note. This will be amazing with some baked sweet potatoes with ginger and honey, and certainly has the heft to be
wonderful with Turkey.
Normally $22.99
Special Case Price $17.99
Willamette Valley, Oregon, 2021
While many wine lovers gush over Elk Cove’s Pinot Gris, I’ve always had a preference for their phenomenal Pinot Blanc, which seamlessly blends lovely texture with voluptuous fruit. Aromas of ripe pear, honey, apricot and chamomile open to honeydew, golden apple, yellow plum and orange zest flavors, while a gingery flourish lends spicy lift and cut. Finishes smooth and broad with a discreet floral note. This will be amazing with some baked sweet potatoes with ginger and honey, and certainly has the heft to be
wonderful with Turkey.
Normally $22.99
Special Case Price $17.99
Hirsch ‘Hirschvergnügen’ Grüner Veltliner
Kamptal, Austria, 2021
This has been one of our favorite Grüner Veltliner for a while, although we've had some confusion about the name. We had thought (or hoped) that Hirschvergnügen was simply a funny take on the old Volkswagen Fahrvergnugen commercials, but turns out not to be so. The real answer is that Hirschvergnügen translates roughly to 'Deer Pleasure', and since the deer is the official symbol of Weingut Hirsch, the name is about being a pleasurable wine. (And apparently Fahrvergnugen means Driving Pleasure, but I digress.) The is classic, elegant Grüner Veltliner with excellent integration of fruit and spice. It is an easy drinking style, with a nose of green apple, meadow flowers, and apple blossoms, with a slight nutty background tone. It has beautiful juciness, paired with lively acidity, and that hint of nuttiness echoes on the finish along with some white pepper accents. There is a wonderful texture makes the finish last.
Normally $25.99
Special Case Price $19.99
Domaine Sautereau Sancerre
Sancerre, Loire Valley, France, 2021
Sancerre is one of the world’s ultimate expressions of Sauvignon Blanc, grown in vineyards that are closer to Burgundy than they are to most of the other top areas of the Loire Valley. The wines are citrusy, bright and intense, but not as grassy as New Zealand SBs, nor as weighty as California examples. The Domaine Sautereau is a blend of some of the finest Sancerre terroirs. All the classic flavors are there though, with grapefruit, lime zest, and mineral notes up front being backed up by a touch of flint and smoke.
Normally $29.99
Special Case Price $23.99
Kamptal, Austria, 2021
This has been one of our favorite Grüner Veltliner for a while, although we've had some confusion about the name. We had thought (or hoped) that Hirschvergnügen was simply a funny take on the old Volkswagen Fahrvergnugen commercials, but turns out not to be so. The real answer is that Hirschvergnügen translates roughly to 'Deer Pleasure', and since the deer is the official symbol of Weingut Hirsch, the name is about being a pleasurable wine. (And apparently Fahrvergnugen means Driving Pleasure, but I digress.) The is classic, elegant Grüner Veltliner with excellent integration of fruit and spice. It is an easy drinking style, with a nose of green apple, meadow flowers, and apple blossoms, with a slight nutty background tone. It has beautiful juciness, paired with lively acidity, and that hint of nuttiness echoes on the finish along with some white pepper accents. There is a wonderful texture makes the finish last.
Normally $25.99
Special Case Price $19.99
Domaine Sautereau Sancerre
Sancerre, Loire Valley, France, 2021
Sancerre is one of the world’s ultimate expressions of Sauvignon Blanc, grown in vineyards that are closer to Burgundy than they are to most of the other top areas of the Loire Valley. The wines are citrusy, bright and intense, but not as grassy as New Zealand SBs, nor as weighty as California examples. The Domaine Sautereau is a blend of some of the finest Sancerre terroirs. All the classic flavors are there though, with grapefruit, lime zest, and mineral notes up front being backed up by a touch of flint and smoke.
Normally $29.99
Special Case Price $23.99
Red Wines
Domaine St. George Cabernet Sauvignon
California, 2018
One wine that we seem to always be on the hunt for is the great, everyday California Cab, one that balances affordability and quality, yet still tasting truly of Cabernet Sauvignon and not just like ‘red wine’. Well, we found a definite winner here with the Domaine St. George! Based primarily on fruit from Sonoma County, it over-delivers with concentration and finesse. Ripe black cherry and cedar aromas combine on the nose, with a touch of vanilla oak in the background. It is richly flavored with black currant and black cherry accents, with mild tones of smoke and mint. It is velvety and soft yet intense on the palate, with lingering berry flavors.
Normally $11.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Domaine St. George Cabernet Sauvignon
California, 2018
One wine that we seem to always be on the hunt for is the great, everyday California Cab, one that balances affordability and quality, yet still tasting truly of Cabernet Sauvignon and not just like ‘red wine’. Well, we found a definite winner here with the Domaine St. George! Based primarily on fruit from Sonoma County, it over-delivers with concentration and finesse. Ripe black cherry and cedar aromas combine on the nose, with a touch of vanilla oak in the background. It is richly flavored with black currant and black cherry accents, with mild tones of smoke and mint. It is velvety and soft yet intense on the palate, with lingering berry flavors.
Normally $11.99
Special Case Price $9.99
Chateau Gabaron Cabernet Sauvignon
Bordeaux, France, 2020
The large majority of Bordeaux red wines are blended, so it is unusual to see one like the Chateau Gabaron that is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, and especially at this quality and price! Lionel Latorse, who we have hosted here in the store several times for tastings, is the third generation owner of this property. It is grown in sand, gravel, clay and limestone in Entre Deux Mers. It is unoaked and fruit forward, offering a juicy, fresh style with black current, black cherry and violet notes. The ripe tannins also benefit from the stainless steel vinification, allowing for a surprisingly elegant and silky finish.
Normally $13.99
Special Case Price $10.99
Bordeaux, France, 2020
The large majority of Bordeaux red wines are blended, so it is unusual to see one like the Chateau Gabaron that is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, and especially at this quality and price! Lionel Latorse, who we have hosted here in the store several times for tastings, is the third generation owner of this property. It is grown in sand, gravel, clay and limestone in Entre Deux Mers. It is unoaked and fruit forward, offering a juicy, fresh style with black current, black cherry and violet notes. The ripe tannins also benefit from the stainless steel vinification, allowing for a surprisingly elegant and silky finish.
Normally $13.99
Special Case Price $10.99
Alvarez de Toledo Mencía
Bierzo, Spain, 2019
Not familiar with the Mencía grape? Well it’s about time you got to know this delicious wine! To get an idea of Mencía take a healthy dose of Cabernet Franc, mix it with Oregon Pinot Noir, Argentine Malbec, and California Zinfandel, and you’ll get something suitable for comparison. A dark purple color, it is a highly perfumed wine with blue fruit, floral and baking spice aromas showing good clarity and a touch of smoky minerality. Silky, seamless and precise on the palate, it offers bitter cherry, boysenberry and spice cake flavors that deepen slowly on the back half. The spice and mineral notes drive a long, focused finish that’s given shape by smooth, fine-grained tannins. Traditional pairings of the region include Cecina, a cured smoked beef, Chorizo, and Empanadas with tuna and red pepper, which are more of a full pie than the smaller Latin American version.
Normally $14.99
Special Case Price $12.49
Bodegas Olivares Tinto
Jumilla, Spain, 2020
The Bodegas Olivares Tinto is 75% Monastrell (Mourvèdre), with 15% Syrah and 10% Garnacha. The juicy 2020 showcases the best characteristics of the vintage on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, a classical year with good ripeness but keeping the freshness and acidity. The wine is aged three months is large oak containers, then bottled to keep the fresh fruit profile, which is akin to biting into a bunch of ripe berries. Those vibrant fruit tones and framed by accents of cherry, anise, and a hint of peppery spice. Juicy acidity lifts and sharpens the tone, and the finish is ripe and smoky, with supple tannins and a late touch of bitter chocolate.
Normally $14.99
Case Special Price $11.99
Bierzo, Spain, 2019
Not familiar with the Mencía grape? Well it’s about time you got to know this delicious wine! To get an idea of Mencía take a healthy dose of Cabernet Franc, mix it with Oregon Pinot Noir, Argentine Malbec, and California Zinfandel, and you’ll get something suitable for comparison. A dark purple color, it is a highly perfumed wine with blue fruit, floral and baking spice aromas showing good clarity and a touch of smoky minerality. Silky, seamless and precise on the palate, it offers bitter cherry, boysenberry and spice cake flavors that deepen slowly on the back half. The spice and mineral notes drive a long, focused finish that’s given shape by smooth, fine-grained tannins. Traditional pairings of the region include Cecina, a cured smoked beef, Chorizo, and Empanadas with tuna and red pepper, which are more of a full pie than the smaller Latin American version.
Normally $14.99
Special Case Price $12.49
Bodegas Olivares Tinto
Jumilla, Spain, 2020
The Bodegas Olivares Tinto is 75% Monastrell (Mourvèdre), with 15% Syrah and 10% Garnacha. The juicy 2020 showcases the best characteristics of the vintage on the Mediterranean coast of Spain, a classical year with good ripeness but keeping the freshness and acidity. The wine is aged three months is large oak containers, then bottled to keep the fresh fruit profile, which is akin to biting into a bunch of ripe berries. Those vibrant fruit tones and framed by accents of cherry, anise, and a hint of peppery spice. Juicy acidity lifts and sharpens the tone, and the finish is ripe and smoky, with supple tannins and a late touch of bitter chocolate.
Normally $14.99
Case Special Price $11.99
La Maialina 'Gertrude' Red Blend
Tuscany, Italy, 2018
45% Sangiovese, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot
Gertrude has been our best selling Italian Red for at least 3 years now. This blend is what we might call a 'Baby' Super-Tuscan. The term Super-Tuscan was coined by journalists in the 1970’s to describe a handful of wines from Tuscany that were using non-traditional grapes. Due to the grapes used, these wines could only be called ‘Table Wines’ according to Italian wine laws, although their quality was far above normal table wine levels. The classic Super-Tuscans now cost hundreds of dollars a bottle, which is why we call this charming affordable blend a 'Baby' Super-Tuscan. This wine offers remarkable value for the complex flavors it delivers. A bright acidity supports robust flavors of grilled meat, fennel, spice, black cherry, dark chocolate and tobacco into a satisfying, lengthy finish.
We avoided it as long as possible, but with our most recent delivery of Gertrude we cannot avoid a slight price increase.
Normally $16.99
Special Case Price $13.99
Tuscany, Italy, 2018
45% Sangiovese, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot
Gertrude has been our best selling Italian Red for at least 3 years now. This blend is what we might call a 'Baby' Super-Tuscan. The term Super-Tuscan was coined by journalists in the 1970’s to describe a handful of wines from Tuscany that were using non-traditional grapes. Due to the grapes used, these wines could only be called ‘Table Wines’ according to Italian wine laws, although their quality was far above normal table wine levels. The classic Super-Tuscans now cost hundreds of dollars a bottle, which is why we call this charming affordable blend a 'Baby' Super-Tuscan. This wine offers remarkable value for the complex flavors it delivers. A bright acidity supports robust flavors of grilled meat, fennel, spice, black cherry, dark chocolate and tobacco into a satisfying, lengthy finish.
We avoided it as long as possible, but with our most recent delivery of Gertrude we cannot avoid a slight price increase.
Normally $16.99
Special Case Price $13.99
Les Petites Cabanes Syrah
Languedoc, France, 2019
Tour St Martin is located in Peyrac-Minervois, 30 minutes north of the medieval city of Carcassone. The topography makes it one of the cooler climate parts of the region, with ideal conditions for cooler climate varietals. The cooling winds and higher elevations south facing hillsides (over 1,000 feet) allow the vineyards to be planted in optimal locations. The vines are dry farmed sustainably and grassed over.they participate in a Europe-wide study of biodiversity, encouraging the nesting of native birds, insects and wildlife in the estate. This 100% Syrah has a vibrant red color with mild rose and lilac floral notes on the nose. The palate is elegant and round, with deep flavors of steeped cherry and framboise liqueur, with notes of black tea, mineral and baking spices echoing on the finish.
Normally $16.99
Special Case Price $12.99
Languedoc, France, 2019
Tour St Martin is located in Peyrac-Minervois, 30 minutes north of the medieval city of Carcassone. The topography makes it one of the cooler climate parts of the region, with ideal conditions for cooler climate varietals. The cooling winds and higher elevations south facing hillsides (over 1,000 feet) allow the vineyards to be planted in optimal locations. The vines are dry farmed sustainably and grassed over.they participate in a Europe-wide study of biodiversity, encouraging the nesting of native birds, insects and wildlife in the estate. This 100% Syrah has a vibrant red color with mild rose and lilac floral notes on the nose. The palate is elegant and round, with deep flavors of steeped cherry and framboise liqueur, with notes of black tea, mineral and baking spices echoing on the finish.
Normally $16.99
Special Case Price $12.99
Braai Pinotage
Western Cape, South Africa, 2020
South Africa’s only native grape is Pinotage, a hybrid cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. The vineyards for Braai’s Pinotage are set in soils of decomposed granite, and sit about 650 feet above sea level, with the grapes benefiting from the cool winds that blow in from the ocean. There is a combination of young and old vines, with the younger vines delivering grapes that give ripe, dark fruit characteristics, and the older vines providing grapes that offer the spicy aroma and more complex earth tones. Sweet oak spice and mocha drizzle lead the decadent nose of this wine, with rich plum and black cherry, as well as berry preserves at the core of the palate. It’s slightly smooth in feel, with a plush impression and spicy, velvety tannins. ‘Braai’ is actually Afrikaner for Barbecue, so you can guess what foods this wine is meant for!
Normally $16.99
Special Case Price $13.49
Western Cape, South Africa, 2020
South Africa’s only native grape is Pinotage, a hybrid cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. The vineyards for Braai’s Pinotage are set in soils of decomposed granite, and sit about 650 feet above sea level, with the grapes benefiting from the cool winds that blow in from the ocean. There is a combination of young and old vines, with the younger vines delivering grapes that give ripe, dark fruit characteristics, and the older vines providing grapes that offer the spicy aroma and more complex earth tones. Sweet oak spice and mocha drizzle lead the decadent nose of this wine, with rich plum and black cherry, as well as berry preserves at the core of the palate. It’s slightly smooth in feel, with a plush impression and spicy, velvety tannins. ‘Braai’ is actually Afrikaner for Barbecue, so you can guess what foods this wine is meant for!
Normally $16.99
Special Case Price $13.49
Lucignano Chianti
Fiorenze, Tuscany, Italy, 2020
Sourced from 25 year old vines grown just outside of Florence, it is a blend of 85% Sangioves, with 6% Merlot, 6% Ciliegiolo, and 3% Canaiolo. While not certified, all the vines are grown following Organic practices. It has a medium intensity ruby red color, and a nose that is intense, overflowing with fruity aromas of black cherry and violets. Soft and medium bodied on the palate, it balances rather present tannins with moderate acidity. Bright red berry fruit, spice and floral accents lend quite a bit of character. This is bright, fresh, and absolutely delicious, and you’ll have a hard time finding another Chianti that delivers so much pure pleasure for the money. Certainly this is one of the most traditional pairings for any dish with tomato sauce, but it isn’t just limited to Italian dishes. Shake things up and try this wine with Beef Bulgogi, Chimichurri Chicken, or Soy-Braised Eggplant with Thai Basil!
Normally $17.99
Special Case Price $14.99
Fiorenze, Tuscany, Italy, 2020
Sourced from 25 year old vines grown just outside of Florence, it is a blend of 85% Sangioves, with 6% Merlot, 6% Ciliegiolo, and 3% Canaiolo. While not certified, all the vines are grown following Organic practices. It has a medium intensity ruby red color, and a nose that is intense, overflowing with fruity aromas of black cherry and violets. Soft and medium bodied on the palate, it balances rather present tannins with moderate acidity. Bright red berry fruit, spice and floral accents lend quite a bit of character. This is bright, fresh, and absolutely delicious, and you’ll have a hard time finding another Chianti that delivers so much pure pleasure for the money. Certainly this is one of the most traditional pairings for any dish with tomato sauce, but it isn’t just limited to Italian dishes. Shake things up and try this wine with Beef Bulgogi, Chimichurri Chicken, or Soy-Braised Eggplant with Thai Basil!
Normally $17.99
Special Case Price $14.99
Bacchus ‘Ginger’s Cuvee’ Pinot Noir
California, 2020
This great value Pinot Noir was originally made as a private label by the wine director of Tribeca Grill in NYC, specifically to be served by the glass at the restaurant. (Ginger is his daughter's name). After years of wine experience, he called upon his California contacts to source fruit for a private wine label for the restaurant, and was able to get the people behind Caymus, Lewis, Miner and more to sell fruit to make affordable, quaffable California wines.It was so popular that they slowly increased production, while keeping high quality, and started offering it out to independent retail such as yours truly. The Pinot Noir is a combination of Monterey and Sonoma fruit, done in neutral oak to preserve the light fruit tones. Accents of black plum, black cherry and baking spices make it a classic of the style. It finishes with great acidity and just a touch
of black tea notes.
Normally $18.99
Special Case Price $14.99
California, 2020
This great value Pinot Noir was originally made as a private label by the wine director of Tribeca Grill in NYC, specifically to be served by the glass at the restaurant. (Ginger is his daughter's name). After years of wine experience, he called upon his California contacts to source fruit for a private wine label for the restaurant, and was able to get the people behind Caymus, Lewis, Miner and more to sell fruit to make affordable, quaffable California wines.It was so popular that they slowly increased production, while keeping high quality, and started offering it out to independent retail such as yours truly. The Pinot Noir is a combination of Monterey and Sonoma fruit, done in neutral oak to preserve the light fruit tones. Accents of black plum, black cherry and baking spices make it a classic of the style. It finishes with great acidity and just a touch
of black tea notes.
Normally $18.99
Special Case Price $14.99
Parcel 41 Merlot
North Coast, California, 2020
California Merlot’s reputation has been knocked around a bit over the last two decades, and in many cases rightly so as the grape’s popularity led to it being planted in the wrong places. Certain wines, like this Parcel 41 Merlot, are still excellent quality and quickly remind one what led to the grape’s huge popularity in the first place! With aromas and flavors that are Cabernet-esque, yet very soft and approachable upon popping the cork, wines like this one are why every restaurant had to serve a Merlot by the glass in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. Coming in at 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, Parcel 41 shines ruby red in the glass, with shimmering purple undertones. The nose is dark and alluring, with aromas of black currant, saddle leather, and milk chocolate, with a subtle and delicate floral note. The mouth is soft and substantial, with round, mouth-filling tannins layering smoothly with the densely packed flavors of chocolate-covered cherries, spicy black plum, and smoky espresso.
Normally $18.99
Special Case Price $14.99
North Coast, California, 2020
California Merlot’s reputation has been knocked around a bit over the last two decades, and in many cases rightly so as the grape’s popularity led to it being planted in the wrong places. Certain wines, like this Parcel 41 Merlot, are still excellent quality and quickly remind one what led to the grape’s huge popularity in the first place! With aromas and flavors that are Cabernet-esque, yet very soft and approachable upon popping the cork, wines like this one are why every restaurant had to serve a Merlot by the glass in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. Coming in at 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, Parcel 41 shines ruby red in the glass, with shimmering purple undertones. The nose is dark and alluring, with aromas of black currant, saddle leather, and milk chocolate, with a subtle and delicate floral note. The mouth is soft and substantial, with round, mouth-filling tannins layering smoothly with the densely packed flavors of chocolate-covered cherries, spicy black plum, and smoky espresso.
Normally $18.99
Special Case Price $14.99
Domaine du Fournier Côtes du Rhône Villages Signargues
Rhone Valley, France, 2016
In the classification of Rhone Valley wines, the Villages level stils between the generic Côtes du Rhône title and location-specific cru wines such as Gigondas or Chateauneuf-du-Pape. This beauty from Domaine du Fournier is a single vineyard wine coming out of the Signargues region in the far south of the Rhone Valley. It is predominantly Syrah, at 70%, with 30% Grenache making up the rest of the blend. It's a muscular, full-bodied Rhone wine perfect for the winter's chill. Blackberry and plum flavors are densely concentrated, along with warming accents of dried sage and mint framed by soft, plush tannins. The finish is moderately long, with a nice touch of cinnamon and bramble at the end. Try this with Swiss Chard sauteed with Dried Apricots and Pine Nuts, or for the meat eaters search out a nice Venison Loin, and do seared medallions with Blackberry Sauce.
Normally $19.99
Special Case Price $15.99
Rhone Valley, France, 2016
In the classification of Rhone Valley wines, the Villages level stils between the generic Côtes du Rhône title and location-specific cru wines such as Gigondas or Chateauneuf-du-Pape. This beauty from Domaine du Fournier is a single vineyard wine coming out of the Signargues region in the far south of the Rhone Valley. It is predominantly Syrah, at 70%, with 30% Grenache making up the rest of the blend. It's a muscular, full-bodied Rhone wine perfect for the winter's chill. Blackberry and plum flavors are densely concentrated, along with warming accents of dried sage and mint framed by soft, plush tannins. The finish is moderately long, with a nice touch of cinnamon and bramble at the end. Try this with Swiss Chard sauteed with Dried Apricots and Pine Nuts, or for the meat eaters search out a nice Venison Loin, and do seared medallions with Blackberry Sauce.
Normally $19.99
Special Case Price $15.99
Clos Troteligotte ‘Délit-K’
Vin de France, 2019
Clos Troteligotte is our favorite producer of wines following the ‘Natural Wine’ ethos. This wine is made by whole cluster, native yeast fermentation of biodynamically grown, hand harvested grapes, and has no added sulfites. A blend of 50% Malbec and 50% Cabernet Franc, it is listed as simply a Vin de France because that blend does not meet the requirements for the Cahors appellation where the winery and vineyards are. The name ‘Délit-K’ is meant to be a play on the word ‘delicate’, as this wine is made to be an easy going, soft and fresh wine. Aromas of raspberry puree and red flowers lead to a light and juicy wine, with vibrant acidity and ripe fruit tones. Blue fruits of the Cabernet Franc meld with the more red fruit tones of the Malbec, leading to wonderful berry accents across the tongue with background hints of black and white pepper, and dusty tannins. This is a great match to hearty recipes using lighter proteins like chicken or pork.
Normally $21.99
Special Case Price $15.99
S.C. Pannell ‘Old Mcdonald’ Greanche
McLaren Vale, Australia, 2018
Stephen Pannell is one of Australia’s finest and most imaginative winemakers. He makes a number of varieties from a range of stunning McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills vineyareds, and all are built around brightness of fruit and savory tannin structure. The fruit for this wines is all from the Old McDonald vineyard, a great place to find perfect fruit, located in the Grenaceh epicenter of Blewitt Springs. It has a seductive aromatic lift of spice, roses and cherry, and then darker flavors of black cherry, raspberry and aniseed. There is an almost cranberry freshness to the acidity, and the tannins promote a luscious savory texture in the mid-palate that rolls and persists, all the way to the long finish. A really beautiful wine, we got an amazing deal by helping the distributor clear out their inventory for the end of the year, and we are happy to pass those savings along to you!
Normally $44.99
Special Case Price $29.99
Vin de France, 2019
Clos Troteligotte is our favorite producer of wines following the ‘Natural Wine’ ethos. This wine is made by whole cluster, native yeast fermentation of biodynamically grown, hand harvested grapes, and has no added sulfites. A blend of 50% Malbec and 50% Cabernet Franc, it is listed as simply a Vin de France because that blend does not meet the requirements for the Cahors appellation where the winery and vineyards are. The name ‘Délit-K’ is meant to be a play on the word ‘delicate’, as this wine is made to be an easy going, soft and fresh wine. Aromas of raspberry puree and red flowers lead to a light and juicy wine, with vibrant acidity and ripe fruit tones. Blue fruits of the Cabernet Franc meld with the more red fruit tones of the Malbec, leading to wonderful berry accents across the tongue with background hints of black and white pepper, and dusty tannins. This is a great match to hearty recipes using lighter proteins like chicken or pork.
Normally $21.99
Special Case Price $15.99
S.C. Pannell ‘Old Mcdonald’ Greanche
McLaren Vale, Australia, 2018
Stephen Pannell is one of Australia’s finest and most imaginative winemakers. He makes a number of varieties from a range of stunning McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills vineyareds, and all are built around brightness of fruit and savory tannin structure. The fruit for this wines is all from the Old McDonald vineyard, a great place to find perfect fruit, located in the Grenaceh epicenter of Blewitt Springs. It has a seductive aromatic lift of spice, roses and cherry, and then darker flavors of black cherry, raspberry and aniseed. There is an almost cranberry freshness to the acidity, and the tannins promote a luscious savory texture in the mid-palate that rolls and persists, all the way to the long finish. A really beautiful wine, we got an amazing deal by helping the distributor clear out their inventory for the end of the year, and we are happy to pass those savings along to you!
Normally $44.99
Special Case Price $29.99